Excelsior Correspondent
JAMMU, Aug 23: Medical and Surgical Traders Association (MASTA) today held a meeting to deliberate on mounting concerns of member suppliers regarding long-pending payments and what they termed as unjust penalties imposed by the Jammu & Kashmir Medical Supplies Corporation Limited (JKMSCL).
In the meeting, MASTA members unanimously urged the Jammu & Kashmir Government to expedite the clearance of outstanding bills worth Rs 150 crore, which, according to them, have remained stuck in the Government treasury since April 2025.
The Association highlighted that despite timely and consistent delivery of critical medical items by suppliers, payments continue to remain blocked, thereby placing a severe financial burden on member companies. It was pointed out that many suppliers have been forced to secure high-interest bank loans in order to keep their operations running, leading to substantial losses owing to mounting interest liabilities.
Alongside payment clearance, MASTA also demanded that the Government waive penalties imposed on suppliers for alleged delayed deliveries. The Association reminded that such waivers had been granted in the past and stressed that many delays occurred due to unavoidable circumstances beyond the suppliers’ control.
“Our members have steadfastly supported J&K’s healthcare system, ensuring uninterrupted supplies even during the most challenging periods. It is only fair that the Government reciprocates by clearing our dues and providing relief from penalties that are unjust under the current circumstances,” said a MASTA spokesperson.
The meeting was attended by office bearers and members of the Association including Ashok Amla (chairman), Vijay Bhardwaj (president), Vimal Arora (general secretary), Sandeep Gupta (senior vice-president), Vikas Pandita, Vijay Tickoo and Mela Singh.
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